Cancers (May 2024)

Gynecological Cancer and Venous Thromboembolism: A Narrative Review to Increase Awareness and Improve Risk Assessment and Prevention

  • Anna Falanga,
  • Domenica Lorusso,
  • Nicoletta Colombo,
  • Gennaro Cormio,
  • Benilde Cosmi,
  • Giuseppa Scandurra,
  • Vanna Zanagnolo,
  • Marco Marietta

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091769
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 16, no. 9
p. 1769

Abstract

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The prevention and appropriate management of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients is of paramount importance. However, the literature data report an underestimation of this major problem in patients with gynecological cancers, with an inconsistent venous thromboembolism risk assessment and prophylaxis in this patient setting. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the available evidence regarding the management of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients, focusing on the specific context of gynecological tumors, exploring the literature discussing risk factors, risk assessment, and pharmacological prophylaxis. We found that the current understanding and management of venous thromboembolism in gynecological malignancy is largely based on studies on solid cancers in general. Hence, further, larger, and well-designed research in this area is needed.

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